Israel Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed concern over the presidential elections, alleging that there were attempts to buy votes and poor turn out of Likud party supporters.
He therefore called on right-wing voters to turn out at polling stations, warning that their apparent lack of participation could undermine his political camp.
This was contained in message posted on X by Netanyahu, described the situation as an “emergency” and claimed that left-wing activists were turning out in large numbers while right-wing supporters remained largely inactive.
“The left’s activists are storming the polling stations – and the right’s activists are indifferent. This is the time to wake up. Go out and get others out to vote – vote Likud!”
His appeal urged supporters of Likud, the party he leads, to mobilise fellow voters and increase participation as the election process continued. The message highlighted his concern over the level of enthusiasm among opposing political groups and sought to encourage greater turnout among right-wing voters.
Netanyahu also raised allegations of possible electoral misconduct after casting his ballot at a polling station in West Jerusalem.
Speaking to reporters after voting, the prime minister claimed that some individuals were attempting to manipulate the election. He cited the reported arrest of three people allegedly found carrying bags of money in connection with an attempt to bribe voters.
“They are some who are trying to rig the elections. The police arrested three people carrying money in bags in an attempt to bribe voters,” Netanyahu told reporters.
His remarks combined an appeal for stronger participation from his political supporters with allegations of attempted voter bribery. However, the account provided did not include further details about the reported arrests or independent confirmation of the alleged electoral interference.
Netanyahu’s call placed voter mobilisation at the centre of his message, urging Likud supporters to respond to what he portrayed as a significant turnout advantage for left-wing activists.
